​Elite Azzi Fudd kept the Dallas Wings’ winning streak alive with two clutch plays in 17 seconds, in a piece originally published by The Sporting News. The author notes that The Sporting News is a preferred source by simply clicking here. Curt Miller has long been recognized for his experience and strategic acumen. As the Wings’ general manager and principal basketball decision-maker, Miller has coached some of the most formidable defensive backcourts in WNBA history. Jordin Canada, Briann January, and Jasmine Thomas are among the guards who thrived defensively under his guidance in stints with Connecticut and Los Angeles. On Sunday, Miller added Azzi Fudd to that distinguished list after the top pick in the 2026 draft delivered in Dallas’ rallying win over the Chicago Sky.
“What Fudd is doing defensively as a rookie is ELITE,” Miller wrote on X following the Wings’ 96-91 victory over Chicago. Fudd unleashed a game-tying three with 3:42 remaining in the fourth quarter. On Chicago’s ensuing possession, guard Sydney Taylor came off a screen and appeared to have a clear route to the rim. But Fudd was there again, delivering a decisive block to force a jump ball and keep the Wings within striking distance. Fudd finished with 16 points, and Dallas clung to the lead for their fifth consecutive win.
Dallas continues to emerge as one of the WNBA’s surprise teams; this Paige Bueckers–led group has won 15 of its past 21 games and sits fourth in the standings with a 16-8 record. Head coach Jose Fernandez has managed a rotation that leans heavy on guards and has shown steady defensive improvement month after month. Despite initial skepticism surrounding Fudd’s No. 1 overall selection, she has become a central reason why Dallas is flourishing.
The spotlight also shines on other league developments, including Caitlin Clark and the Fever navigating the WNBA’s chaotic Eastern Conference landscape; Paige Bueckers embracing a new nickname after Nike’s latest ad went viral; Sophie Cunningham’s outspoken trash talk reflecting an emphatic Fever rout of the Aces; and Sabrina Ionescu adjusting to WNBA punishments following a controversial technical foul in Tempo’s favor. This narrative captures how Fudd’s rise, Miller’s defensive philosophy, and Dallas’ rapid ascent are reshaping expectations for the Wings and their rivals in a season that continues to surprise and intrigue.